Several hours and course changes later, a calm had returned to the ship. Bane had introduced Corren to Kaylee and had left them discussing the merits of various engine parts, using language she had never heard before. Kaylee seemed to have the ability to converse with everyone on their own level. Now that they were safe, Bane needed to calm the shakes which had set in. As she made some tea in the galley, she realised she was still in her Companion clothing and it was covered in a mix of Reaver and Jacobsson’s blood. The teapot clattered against the cup so she set it down and took some deep breaths.

“Hope that blood’s not yours,” said Mal, coming in from the cockpit end of the galley. Bane opened her eyes and looked down at herself.

“No, part of it belongs to that Reaver and the rest to Jacobsson,” she replied. “Do you know how he’s doing?” Mal came behind the counter and took over the tea making without asking. If he saw Bane’s hands shaking he said nothing.

“He’s stable, but the Doc has a lot of sewin’ to do.” Mal handed her one of the steaming cups.

“Is he part of the crew?” she asked, recalling that she had turned Mal down on his offer of a job some nine months ago. Mal remembered too and shrugged in response.

“Since the last five months. He’s able too, if’n you can get him to stay put.” Bane sat down at the table. “Was that your first time with Reavers?” he continued. Bane gave a short laugh and showed him her trembling hands.

“It’s that obvious then?”

“Well, no. Most people fall to pieces in fear the moment they see one. You handled yourself impressively. Your cousin weren’t bad either for someone so young.”

“She’s very capable. Can put her hand to most things,” Bane answered absently, her mind on other things. “Listen Mal – do you think my brother and I are flagged?” Mal sipped his tea and thought about it.